Will Vote For Wine!

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

The 18th Annual Paso Robles Rotary Winemaker’s Cook-off is back for more BBQ, booze and bribes. This year’s event will be held on Saturday, Aug. 13, and will once again bring top winemakers together to battle it out for the Judges’ Choice and People’s Choice awards, and they aren’t above trading wine or beer for votes.

Image Source: Rex Thornhill

The Winemaker’s Cook-off is unique because it’s not the quality of the wine that makes a winner, it’s all based on culinary talents (and a little bit of sweet talking). The Judge’s Choice awards are selected by qualified independent judges who will make decisions solely based on quality; however, the People’s Choice awards are what makes the night a little more fun. Each attendee has three votes to cast, and it’s customary that the winemakers try to “buy” votes with some type of bribe. This debauchery is actually encouraged by Cook-off organizers and is what adds to the unique character of the occasion.

Image Source: Rex Thornhill

The spirited event will feature live music from Julie Beaver & the Bad Dogs and delicious grilled bites from 30 of your favorite local winemakers and brew masters. With only one rule – all food must be prepared on a grill – the competitors go all out to steal your vote! Sip and sample from the various tables and let the challengers convince you why they should get best in show.

Image Source: Rex Thornhill

It’s not all fun and games, the event also raises money for a good cause. All proceeds from the cook-off go to the Harlow Ford Scholarship Foundation which funds scholarships for local high school seniors. Since the event’s inception, the Paso Robles Rotary has awarded more than $400,000 in scholarships to deserving students.

Image Source: Rex Thornhill

So have fun, let the winemakers offer you a glass or two, then decide who you think is deserving of this year’s trophy! Tickets are $85 for general admission or $45 for designated drivers and you must be 21 or older to attend. For more information and to purchase your tickets, visit www.WinemakersCookoff.com.